Explain why atomic radius decreases across a period

As you go along a period, there is an increasing number of protons in the nucleus of each atom meaning that the nucleus has an increasing positive charge.This means that the electrons are puller closer to the nucleus, decreasing the atomic radius.The electrons added across a period are added to the outer energy level so do not provide any shielding effect which would otherwise increase the atomic radius.

TD

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a stereoisomer?


Describe how to perform a flame test to identify an unknown compound.


Calculate the mass of sodium amide needed to obtain 550 g of sodium azide, assuming there is a 95.0% yield of sodium azide. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.


Why is methylamine a stronger base than phenylamine?